Loreto College

Overview

Loreto College is a large Catholic sixth form college where students benefit from an “inclusive learning environment” and “exemplary” behaviour. The report highlights a “culture of continuous improvement” driven by highly effective leaders, resulting in students who “do exceptionally well” and are well-prepared for future study and careers.

Strengths

• Students display “exemplary” behaviour, creating a “calm and caring environment” with very high attendance.
• Staff provide “exceptional support” for students with special educational needs and disabilities, helping them develop “confidence and resilience”.
• Teachers use “highly effective strategies” to check understanding and build logically on earlier learning, ensuring students make strong connections between subjects.
• Leaders have developed “ambitious curriculums” that prepare students effectively for university, including specific adaptations for high-needs learners.
• Students receive “relevant and high-quality careers advice” and engage in innovative volunteering that develops skills such as “resilience, communication and empathy”.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must involve employers and stakeholders more sufficiently in the planning and design of most courses to better tailor programmes to local skills needs.
• A few teachers in specific subjects must provide more personalised feedback to ensure students understand how to improve and avoid repeating errors.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders promoting a “culture of vigilance and support” and staff being well-trained to identify and report concerns.